Shouts of encouragement were replaced by gasps of surprise as a dozen hardy souls took to the icy waters of the Kootenay River on Jan. 29.
Organizer Jason Louie was the first to take the plunge at the old ferry landing, having accepted a winter wellness challenge from several B.C. First Nations.
“The dip into the frigid waters is a symbol of cleansing and a renewal of mind, body and spirit for the new year,” Louie told a crowd of about 40.
He dedicated his plunge to his wife Angie and others who deal with the daily challenges presented by diabetes.
After Louie emerged from the water, Mayor Ron Toyota was next to go, followed by Lower Kootenay Band members and friends, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers, School District No. 8 (Kootenay Lake) trustee Heather Suttie and Coun. Karen Unruh.
“I couldn’t say no to Jason’s invitation,” Toyota said afterward. “He works so hard at bringing people together and injecting a spiritual aspect to all of his actions.”
Participants — at least most of them — donned a life jacket and were attached to a rope held by retired RCMP constable Dan Cameron.
“We don’t want to lose anyone!” Louie joked.
He invited participants to state an intention before taking the plunge, an offer that most accepted.
“It would be great to make this an annual event,” Toyota said.
Prior to the event, Louie shared his thoughts.
“Jumping in a cold river may seem ridiculous. What’s the point?” he asked. “These rivers and waterways are the veins that have always connected our communities. It is connected to the heart, being Kootenay Lake. These waterways have a spirit. This spirit has sustained humanity forever. Never forget that without water we would not survive. The river that we will enter tomorrow is ancient.
“I believe that the medicine of laughter will also be there. Laugh at the participants because it is always good for us to humble ourselves. But also know many will have a pledge as to why they are taking the plunge.”
Creston Fire Rescue personnel were on hand in case of an emergency, but none of the swimmers required help.
